what happens when you break parole

3 min read 22-12-2024

Meta Description: Facing parole violation? Understand the consequences, from routine check-ins to potential imprisonment. This guide details what happens when you break parole, covering technical and substantive violations, legal processes, and how to avoid violations. Learn about your rights and the steps to take if facing parole revocation. Don't risk your freedom – read this comprehensive guide now!

Understanding Parole and its Conditions

Parole is the conditional release of an incarcerated individual before the completion of their sentence. It's a privilege, not a right, granted by a parole board. This conditional release comes with a set of strict rules and regulations, known as parole conditions. These conditions vary depending on the nature of the crime, the individual's history, and the state's parole guidelines. Violating these conditions can have serious repercussions.

Common Parole Conditions

Parole conditions often include:

Regular check-ins: Reporting to a parole officer at specified intervals.
Maintaining employment: Holding a steady job to demonstrate responsibility.
Drug testing: Submitting to regular drug screenings to ensure sobriety.
Residency restrictions: Living in a specific area or avoiding certain locations.
No contact with victims: Avoiding any interaction with individuals harmed by the crime.
Abstaining from alcohol: Maintaining complete abstinence from alcohol consumption.
Mental health treatment: Attending therapy or counseling sessions as directed.

Failure to comply with any of these conditions constitutes a parole violation.

Types of Parole Violations

Parole violations are broadly categorized into two types:

1. Technical Violations

These are infractions that don't involve the commission of a new crime. Examples include:

Missing a scheduled meeting with your parole officer.
Failing a drug test.
Changing your address without notifying your parole officer.
Associating with known criminals.
Violating curfew.

Even though they might seem minor, technical violations can lead to serious consequences.

2. Substantive Violations

These are more serious violations involving the commission of a new crime, such as:

Arrest for a new offense.
Conviction for a new offense.
Being charged with a new offense.

Substantive violations carry much harsher penalties than technical violations.

The Parole Revocation Process

When a parole officer suspects a violation, they will initiate an investigation. This may involve interviews, gathering evidence, and reviewing the parolee's activities. If the officer finds sufficient evidence of a violation, they will recommend parole revocation to the parole board.

The parolee is entitled to a hearing before the parole board to present their case and challenge the allegations. They have the right to legal representation. The board will review the evidence and decide whether to revoke parole.

Consequences of Parole Revocation

If parole is revoked, the individual will be returned to prison to serve the remainder of their original sentence. In addition, they may face other penalties, such as:

Increased sentence length.
Loss of parole privileges in the future.
Damage to reputation and employment prospects.

How to Avoid Parole Violations

Successfully completing parole requires careful planning and adherence to the conditions set by the parole board. Here are some tips to avoid violations:

Understand your conditions: Thoroughly review and understand all parole conditions.
Maintain regular contact: Keep in regular contact with your parole officer and attend all scheduled meetings.
Seek support: Reach out to support groups or family members for assistance.
Follow the rules: Strictly adhere to all parole conditions, no matter how minor they may seem.
Seek help when needed: Don't hesitate to seek help if you're struggling to meet the conditions of your parole.

Seeking Legal Assistance

If you are facing a parole violation, it's crucial to seek legal assistance immediately. An experienced attorney can advise you of your rights, represent you at your hearing, and help you navigate the complex legal process. Don't try to handle this alone. The stakes are too high.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice tailored to your specific situation.